How to tell if you're a good dog owner?

The most important factor is whether or not the dog’s quality of life will be improved by moving to a new home. Will the dog receive everything I will give him and MORE? This includes high quality nutrition, exercise, socialization, opportunities to succeed, love & attention, etc. I want my dogs to be in loving homes and considered part of the ‘family”. They should be treated with respect in old age and not ‘thrown away’ or neglected when they no longer serve a working purpose. People who are constantly 'losing' dogs or 'rehoming' dogs are not a good fit. Does the potential new owner have the financial means to provide high quality nutrition and veterinary care if necessary? Owning dogs is expensive. Do I have an established relationship with the potential new owner? Do we trust each other?

A responsible dog owner does their best to make sure their four-legged friend is the happiest and healthiest at all times. Exercise, a healthy diet, regular grooming, and socialization are some of the most important aspects of owning a dog. As a dog owner, it’s important that your dog’s health and happiness are constantly considered. Things like up-to-date vaccinations are just as important as daily playtime or exercise to make sure your dog stays healthy.

They place the needs of their pet first. A responsible pet owner also budgets accordingly, ensuring that their pet doesn’t have to lose out on anything. A responsible pet owner carves out time every day for specific events, including meals, bathroom breaks, exercise time, training, and snuggle time. Taking the time it takes to train is an important aspect of responsible ownership. A responsible owner knows that preventive care including vaccinations, dental care, and parasite control contribute to overall health. A responsible pet owner prepares for the cost of veterinary medicine, either by saving or purchasing pet insurance. You provide them with a safe place to rest. You never force them into situations that make them feel unsafe. You spend time with your pet every day.

To tell if you're a good dog owner, master that recall, as it will make walks stress-free and could save your dog's life. When there’s a dog on a lead, leash yours too, because you don’t always know why that other dog is on its lead. Never assume we all love dogs, as having a dog is a privilege, not a right, and it is not your dog’s right to impose on others’ space or experience. Make an effort to understand your dog, as with a better understanding of your dog’s habits and inherent characteristics, you can provide a better and more fulfilling life for him. Keeping your dog on a lead, or at the very least under strict control, in public places is key – especially in pubs or restaurants where others are trying to enjoy a meal. Remember that children can be fearful of dogs and no amount of “oh she loves kids!” will change that. Give humans the space they need and deserve in public. If you see a dog on a lead while yours is running free, the safest thing to do is leash your pet. No dog is going to be perfect with recall – sometimes there is a smell that is just too tempting – but some recall is better than none.